The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday approved Phase 2A of the Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening urban mobility and improving connectivity between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.
The approved corridor will span 6.032 kilometres and include five stations, comprising four elevated stations and one underground station. The project will be developed at a total cost of ₹2,169.04 crore, including interest during construction (IDC).
The new corridor will connect Koteshwar Road to the Ahmedabad Airport and include stations at Ashram Road, Koteshwar Prachin Mandir, Sabarmati River, Sardar Nagar, and Airport.
With the commissioning of Phase 2A, the Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar Metro network will expand to 77.63 kilometres, significantly enhancing the region’s public transportation infrastructure.
The project is expected to provide seamless connectivity to the airport while linking key residential and commercial areas that currently lack efficient mass transit options. The corridor will integrate with the existing Ahmedabad-Gandhinagar Metro network, enabling smoother movement of commuters across the twin cities.
The government said the project is also expected to support future infrastructure development in the region, particularly in view of the proposed sports facilities planned for major international events such as the World Police Games 2029 and the Commonwealth Games 2030.
The government said that extending the metro network to the airport will help reduce dependence on road transport, easing traffic congestion and improving travel efficiency within Ahmedabad. Reduced road traffic is expected to result in shorter travel times, smoother vehicular movement, and enhanced road safety.
The project is also expected to contribute to environmental sustainability by encouraging the use of public transport and reducing carbon emissions associated with fossil fuel-based transportation.
Highlighting the economic benefits of the expansion, the government said improved connectivity to key destinations such as the airport, railway stations, and bus terminals would boost productivity by reducing travel time. Better accessibility is also expected to stimulate local businesses, attract investments, and encourage development in areas surrounding the new metro stations.
The metro expansion is expected to have a significant social impact by providing more equitable access to affordable public transportation for people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Improved connectivity and reduced commuting times are likely to enhance access to employment opportunities, education, healthcare, and other essential services.
The government described Phase 2A as a transformative step in Ahmedabad’s urban development journey, laying the foundation for future expansion while addressing key challenges related to mobility, sustainability, and infrastructure growth.
The project is also expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Around 2,000 people are likely to be employed during the peak construction phase, while approximately 500 personnel are expected to be engaged in the operation and maintenance of the metro system once it becomes operational.
The government said the project will play a crucial role in shaping the future growth of Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar by providing a modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable public transport network.
